The Ukrainian Air Force F-16 training enterprise is quickly taking shape. MS&T Editor Marty Kauchak provides the first periodic “deep dive” into the learning technologies supporting the establishment of that service’s mission-capable F-16 units.
A quickening pace of high-level and behind-closed-doors meetings last week continued to shape the nascent Ukrainian F-16 program, but this recent progress aside, it is increasingly evident Ukrainian Air Force-piloted F-16s will not be flying missions until early 2024. Group Editor Marty Kauchak investigates.
“Before the war, everyone in Ukraine thought simulation was a game,” said Michael Obod, an entrepreneur whose Ukraine-based Skiftech builds tactical simulation programs. “But they are very serious now and understand how to utilize it.”
The US and other nations continue to provide a broad range of war materiel to Ukraine. Belatedly, the oft-discussed transfer of F-16s to Ukraine is gathering speed. Group Editor Marty Kauchak explores the situation.
A few days ago, the plate tectonics of the Ukraine-Russian war quickened as the US and its allies gave policy-level approval to transfer fourth-generation F-16s to Ukraine. The implications of the new missions the Ukrainian air force may be able to attempt with these fighter aircraft are significant.
Signing on with the Wagner Group was supposed to be a ‘get out of jail’ card, but for tens of thousands of young Russian men it became a ticket to Hell. Like the once-vaunted Russian Army, which was expected to blitz through its neighbour within a matter of days, the Wagner reputation has similarly suffered in the crucible of conflict against a more highly motivated and better-trained foe.
The Ukraine-Russia war and other fast-moving global events are compelling the US and its allies and partners to continue investments in learning technologies across their training enterprises – and concurrently strengthen their live training programs.